Michael Naranjo facts for kids

Michael Naranjo is a talented Native American sculptor. He was born in 1944 in Santa Clara Pueblo, New Mexico. Michael is a member of the Tewa Tribe. He grew up in Taos, New Mexico. His mother, Rose Naranjo, was a ceramic artist. This meant Michael learned about pottery and art from a young age.

Michael joined the army and served in the Vietnam War. During his service, he was seriously injured. This injury caused him to lose his eyesight and hurt his right hand. While he was recovering, he began to sculpt with clay. Slowly, sculpting became his passion and his job. He first made models from clay, wax, and papier-mache. Some of these were later made into bronze. Later, he started using stone in his art. He loves to sculpt Native American warriors, dancers, children, soldiers, bears, fish, and birds.

Michael Naranjo's Sculptures

The Dancer by Michael Naranjo at the Albuquerque Museum Sculpture Garden

Michael Naranjo's artwork is very well-known. His sculptures are admired by many people. He has even had special opportunities because of his art.

Touching Famous Sculptures

In 1986, the Italian government gave Michael Naranjo a special chance. He was allowed to use a custom-built scaffold to touch Michelangelo's David in Florence. This amazing experience was shown in two TV videos. He was also allowed to "visit by touch" sculptures in the famous Louvre museum in Paris. In 2019, he visited the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. There, he was able to touch James Earle Fraser's famous sculpture, End of the Trail. These experiences show how much his unique way of experiencing art is respected.

Words of Inspiration

Michael Naranjo's words are carved on one of the 18 glass panels at the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial. This memorial is in Washington, D.C.. President Obama even spoke his words during the dedication ceremony. This shows the powerful impact of Michael's message.

Awards and Recognition

Michael Naranjo has received many important awards for his art.

• In 1979, his sculpture called Santa Clara Rain Dancer won several top prizes. It received First Prize, Best in Class, and Best in Division at the Santa Fe Indian Market.
• In 1990, he was given the Distinguished Achievement Award. This award came from the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.
• In 1999, the LIFE Foundation honored him as a Presidential Unsung Hero.
• In 2004, he received the Distinguished Art Award from the Santa Fe Rotary Foundation.

Where to See His Art

Michael Naranjo's sculptures are part of several important art collections.

• The Vatican in Vatican City, Italy, has his pieces.
• The White House in Washington D.C. also includes his art.
• The Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona has some of his works in its permanent collection.